OTTAWA, Kan. – A young but highly competitive Ottawa University women's volleyball team enters the 2026 season looking to build on last year's strong finish and continue its climb in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Head coach Ashan Jordan's Braves were selected to finish seventh in the 2026 KCAC Women's Volleyball Preseason Coaches' Poll. Ottawa received 104 points, just three behind sixth-place Kansas Wesleyan University. McPherson College was picked to win the conference with 167 points and 11 first-place votes.

Ottawa enters 2026 after finishing 10-14 overall and 7-6 in KCAC play last season. The Braves placed sixth in the conference standings, exceeding their seventh-place preseason prediction, and qualified for the KCAC Tournament. OU also gained momentum as the season progressed, winning five of its final seven conference matches after beginning KCAC play 2-4.

That finish provided a foundation for a young Ottawa roster that has brought a different level of competition into the gym during the preseason.

"The most exciting thing about our volleyball team is how competitive they are in the gym," said Jordan. "Although being a young team, they show up daily and give their all."

Jordan wants that competitive approach to become part of the program's identity in 2026, along with traits that extend beyond match day.

"I would like the identity of this program to be hardworking and disciplined both on and off the court," Jordan said.

Ottawa returns several players who gained valuable experience last season, including Second Team All-KCAC performer Campbell Stark. Stark finished the 2025 season with 178 kills, a .261 attacking percentage and 95 blocks.

Jordan has also been impressed with the offseason development of Kira and Makela, who have positioned themselves to take on larger roles this fall.

"I would have to say Kira and Makela have taken the biggest steps since last season," Jordan said. "They have shown over the past few weeks a great deal of grit and intensity."

Makela Martinez gained significant experience as a setter last season. During the 2025 campaign, she emerged as one of Ottawa's primary setters and led the Braves in assists per set midway through conference play.

Along with the returning group, the Braves expect newcomers to provide an immediate boost. Jordan identified Tymerian and Katie as two players who could make their presence felt when opportunities arise.

"Tymerian and Katie will definitely make a big impact on our program when given the chance," Jordan said.

While Ottawa is young, Jordan believes the roster's talent and passion, combined with the daily competition taking place in practice, gives the Braves plenty of room to develop throughout the season.

"I would like people to know that we have a very talented group of players with a great passion for volleyball," Jordan said.

For Jordan, success in 2026 will certainly be measured by wins and losses, but the development of the Braves on and off the court will be equally important.

"Of course, winning!" Jordan said of what would make the season successful. "However, I would really like to look back and see all the improvements each athlete has made not only on the court but as individuals."

The Braves will have their first opportunity to put that competitive mindset on display Tuesday, Aug. 25, when they open the 2026 season against Baker University inside Wilson Field House. The varsity match is scheduled for 7 p.m.

With a young roster eager to compete, experienced returners taking another step forward and newcomers ready to contribute, Ottawa enters the season focused on turning its daily competition in the gym into results on the court.